Help for waning libido

Help for waning libido

Submitted by: Marc Gittelman

Submitted on: September 9, 2008

Q: I am only in my 30’s and I have noticed a definite change in my sexual desire. I love my husband and he is very sensitive and understanding but both of us have noticed that my interest level in making love is just not what it used to be. My doctor says to just relax about it, but I’m not satisfied with that. What else can I do?

A: You are not alone. Low desire/low libido is a problem, found in approximately 25 percent of all women in the United States and Europe. While for some of those women it is not an issue, a significant percent say their low desire causes distress for either them or their partner.

It can affect women both pre- and post-menopause. For some women this may be partially due to low testosterone. These women may be helped with the use of testosterone gels, which have not been approved by the FDA.

There is a significant amount of research in progress about testosterone gels and creams and whether they enhance women’s sex drive.

For other women their low sexual desire may be due to relationship issues or stress. For these women they may consider visiting a sexual health counselor or therapist to try to explore these issues.

There are other medical problems such as low thyroid levels, depression and a variety of other issues can show up as low libido as well. Start with being honest with your physician and gynecologist and they can guide you in the right direction.